Happy Anniversary to the Loach!

In 1960, the US Department of Defense issued Technical Specification 153 for a Light Observation Helicopter (LOH) capable of fulfilling various roles: personnel transport, escort and attack missions, casualty evacuation and observation. 

Twelve companies took part in the competition and Hughes submitted the Model 369, nicknamed the "flying egg" on account of its shape. The Hiller and Bell aircraft were selected as finalists, but the US Army later included the Hughes helicopter as well — which was offered at an exceptionally low price — under the designation OH-6, and five prototypes were ordered in spring 1961. The Bell was subsequently eliminated from the contest and the Hughes 369 was redesignated OH-6A "Cayuse". The first of the five prototypes flew on 27 February 1963 and was delivered to Fort Rucker air base the following November, to begin trials for the Army.

MUCH, MUCH MORE HERE

-WiscoDave